Anticipation around the Nintendo Switch 2 is intense given the success of the current Switch console. However, with the hardware already being beyond dated at release, it was due time to finally see what the next generation of Nintendo Hardware would allow for the next few years. And today, we got that glimpse into the Nintendo Switch 2.
Releasing on June 5th, the Nintendo Switch 2 Direct also showcased a lot of the technical features provided with new hardware. While it emulates the previous console in many ways, the Switch 2 has been built from the ground up with several new features. With double the pixel count and allowing up to 120fps both handheld and docked, bigger analog sticks, a built in fan on the dock, and magnetically attached Joycons, you can also enjoy a built-in mic, two USB-C ports, and all-new mouse controls. There is a lot here to get excited about with how it will affect gameplay on compatible titles.
Update: Nintendo has announced pricing apart from the Direct. Currently, the MSRP is 449.99 USD for Switch 2 with a Mario Kart World bundle for 499.99. Currently, there is no Canadian pricing conversion.
Apart from the increased screen size with a 7.9 inch screen, Nintendo also showed off the new C button. And the C stands for “Chat” as Gamechat will finally be added within the console itself. This new feature is also compatible with the new Nintendo Switch 2 camera. Gamechat will allow you to share your screen with your friends, allowing you to see the progress you are making as a team or through any game you want. The mic uses new tech that makes sure your voice comes through clear even when background noise makes it difficult.
Nintendo also showed off a ton of games coming to Nintendo Switch 2 including Mario Kart World. This new entry into the franchise has a free roam mode to take in its massive environments, with racers even having to drive to the next course after a race. There is also a knockout tour mode that has you racing to checkpoints from one side of the map to the other, and you’ll also be able to take scenic drives with friends with the all new photo mode.
Additonally, several Switch games will see improvements running on the new hardware, complete with some taking advantage of the new mouse controls like Super Mario Party Jamboree, Breath of the Wild, Tears of the Kingdom, and Kirby and the Forgotten Land will also see several new improvements to visuals and resolution, with the latter receiving an all new story expansion. And, that’s not all as Metroid Prime Beyond will release on the Switch 2 as well with 4K 60fps HDR or 1080p 120fps gameplay. Lastly, Pokemon Legends ZA will see a Switch 2 release and finally bring the series into high resolution.
Nintendo Showed off several other games including a mouse-controlled 3 on 3 basketball game called Drag and Drive, as well as a new entry in the Hyrule Warriors series called Age of Imprisonment, taking place during the moment in Tears of the Kingdom when Zelda went back in time.
Nintendo stepped up with its 3rd party support as Elden Ring and Final Fantasy VII remake will be coming to the system. We also were treated to a ton of announcements including Hades 2, Street Fighter 6, Split Fiction, Cyberpunk 2077, Tony Hawk Pro Skater 3+4, Borderlands 4, and many more from numerous 3rd party publishers like EA and 2K.
Nintendo also snagged a huge get with a brand new From Software game called the Dusk Bloods, which will launch in 2026 as a Switch 2 exclusive. Nintendo also showed off a sizzle wheel that features such titles as Hollow Knight: Silksong, Wild Hearts, Two Point Museum, Marvel Cosmic Invasion, Shadow Labrynth, Reanimal, Fortnite, and more!
The last few announcements were equally as exciting as what had been shown off so far. Nintendo Gamecube games will be coming exclusively to Nintendo Switch 2 with Wind Waker, Soul Calibur 2, and F-Zero GX leading the way with plenty of other titles such as Fire Emblem and Luigi’s Mansion to follow.
The last two games shown off were a sequel to Kirby Air Ride called Air Riders, being directed by Smash Bros Director, Masahiro Sakurai. And while many were expecting a Mario Game to launch with the console, Donkey Kong Bananza will take command of the loose launch window and release on July 17th, 2025, introducing fans of the previous games to a 3D and 2.5D adventure in a huge underground land.